Tulsa, Oklahoma – Scattered thunderstorms could bring damaging winds and hail to parts of eastern Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas late Friday as a developing system pushes southward into the evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service in Tulsa, storms are expected to form across northeastern Oklahoma by late afternoon and may strengthen into more widespread severe weather after sunset. A slight risk zone stretches from Bartlesville to McAlester and eastward into Arkansas, including Fort Smith and Fayetteville. Wind gusts could reach 60 mph, and hail up to the size of quarters is possible. The tornado risk remains low but not zero.
Cities including Tulsa, Muskogee, and Tahlequah may see the most active weather between 5 p.m. and midnight. Travel along I-40 and U.S. Highway 69 could become hazardous during evening commutes due to strong winds and reduced visibility. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and have multiple ways to receive alerts.
This storm system marks one of the last organized rounds of severe weather expected in the region before a quieter pattern sets in this weekend. Warnings could be issued quickly — so stay alert through tonight.
